What is a Computer/Computing Device?
Summary
Materials
Instructional Activities and Classroom Assessments
- What makes a computer, a computer? (10 minutes)
- Introduction to the micro:bit (5 minutes)
- MakeCode for micro:bit (10 minutes)
- JavaScript (5 minutes)
- Pair programming (15 minutes)
- Reflection (5 minutes)
Learning Objectives
- CRD-1.A Explain how computing innovations are improved through collaboration. Computational Thinking Practices: Skills 1.C
- CRD-2.A Describe the purpose of a computing innovation. Computational Thinking Practices: Skills 1.A
- CRD-2.B Explain how a program or code segment functions. Computational Thinking Practices: Skills 4.A
- CRD-2.G Describe the purpose of a code segment or program by writing documentation. Computational Thinking Practices: Skills 4.A
- CRD-2.I For errors in an algorithm or program: a.) Identify the error. b.) Correct the error. Computational Thinking Practices: Skills 4.C
- CSN-1.A Explain how computing devices work together in a network. 5.A
Essential Knowledge
- CRD-1.A.1 A computing innovation includes a program as an integral part of its function.
- CRD-1.A.2 A computing innovation can be physical (e.g., self-driving car), nonphysical computing software (e.g., picture editing software), or a nonphysical computing concept (e.g., e-commerce).
- CRD-1.A.5 Consultation and communication with users are important aspects of the development of computing innovations.
- CRD-2.A.1 The purpose of computing innovations is to solve problems or to pursue interests through creative expression.
- CRD-2.B.1 A program is a collection of program statements that performs a specific task when run by a computer. A program is often referred to as software.
- CRD-2.B.2 A code segment is a collection of program statements that is part of a program.
- CRD-2.G.1 Program documentation is a written description of the function of a code segment, event, procedure, or program and how it was developed.
- CRD-2.G.3 Programmers should document a program throughout its development.
- CRD-2.I.2 A syntax error is a mistake in the program where the rules of the programming language are not followed.
- CSN-1.A.1 A computing device is a physical artifact that can run a program. Some examples include computers, tablets, servers, routers, and smart sensors.
- CSN-1.A.2 A computing system is a group of computing devices and programs working together for a common purpose.
- CSN-1.A.3 A computer network is a group of interconnected computing devices capable of sending or receiving data.
- CSN-1.A.4 A computer network is a type of computing system.
Details
1. What makes a computer, a computer? (10 minutes)
- Discuss the common components of all computers:
- Input
- Memory
- Processor
- Output
- Ask students to:
- Partner up with a classmate.
- Think about the things that we've observed as computers in our lives.
- Can you identify the parts that make them computers?
Introduction the micro:bit (5 minutes)
- Explain what the micro:bit is.
- Identify the different components on the micro:bit:
- Input
- Memory
- Processor
- Output
- Power source
- Bluetooth antenna and radio
3. MakeCode for micro:bit (10 minutes)
- Ask student to go to MakeCode for micro:bit.
- Instruct students to select the Flashing Heart tutorial.
- Either go through the tutorial together, or allow students to complete the tutorial on their own.
- When they are finished, show students how to make comments on their code.
- When they are finished, remind students to save their program.
4. JavaScript (5 minutes)
- Explain that there are multiple coding languages.
- Ask students to switch to JavaScript.
- Ask students questions about how the same coding elements are represented in different ways with JavaScript.
5. Pair Programming (15 minutes)
- Explain the concept of pair programming.
- Encourage students to pair up with someone and create a program for their micro:bit.
6. Reflection - if you run out of time, you may also assign this as individual homework
- Encourage students to discuss or write a reflection on the following questions:
- How was the experience of working with the micro:bit?
- Did you stick with the exact instructions of the tutorials?
- Did you venture beyond?
- How did pair programming work for you and your partner?